Good morning, Montgomery.

On Wednesday night, dozens of Montgomery residents joined a panel discussion on gun violence as community leaders launched the Save Our Streets program—part of the multi-million dollar Live Free Initiative.

Councilwoman Franetta Riley and Yolanda Adams said the evidence-based program will mentor at-risk individuals and connect them with local resources.

Police charged Lamicheon Allen, 21, with capital murder for the shooting death of 23-year-old Shaquille Davis, who was fatally shot on March 20 at about 7:20 a.m. on the 700 block of Havelock Lane — he was taken into custody by the United States Marshal’s Taskforce.

The Montgomery County Board of Education approved contracts for Dr. Zickeyous Byrd as superintendent and interim Chief School Financial Officer Pamela Watkins on April 23—even though two board members were absent.

The decision sparked local controversy as Mayor Reed proposed a separate city school system while Dr. Byrd is set to start on May 1.

The Alabama House approved a record $12.1B education budget package on Tuesday that includes an extra $80M for a new school choice program — the package could be taken up as early as today after it returns to the Senate.

It also sets aside funds for a new K-12 school funding formula, technology improvements, and a higher contribution for public education employee health insurance.

Izaia (Jack) Schacter, an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor from Birmingham, was honored at the Alabama State House on Tuesday, April 22nd, during Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Gov. Kay Ivey and lawmakers passed a resolution at events held at the Alabama Department of Archives and History that underscored state support for Holocaust education and Israel.

Bruce Lieberman was appointed as Montgomery County District Judge—15th Judicial Circuit by Governor Kay Ivey, succeeding Tiffany McCord.

The Montgomery native and AUM graduate will work every day for county citizens—fulfilling his long career commitment to public service.

The Alabama Women, Infants and Children program launched the WICShopper app to help WIC participants track their benefits, scan barcodes for approved products, and find nearby clinics and stores — the app also offers healthy recipes and cooking advice — and aims to simplify shopping for nutritious food.

The Heart of Alabama Food Bank announced Wednesday three new programs in Montgomery to help thousands in rural counties—Food as Medicine offers medically tailored meals and produce, Heroes Harvest supports military families with regular food deliveries, and a Mobile Market will deliver up to 6,000 pounds of fresh foods to areas without grocery access. It is partnering with Montgomery Cancer Center, Jackson Hospital, and the Kidney Foundation to meet urgent food needs.

The Grove MGM 5K Fun Run/Walk and Open House

12:30-3:30 p.m. — The Grove MGM — Donations encouraged — Celebrate the opening of a community resource for young women transitioning out of foster care while enjoying a scenic 5K run/walk.

Jeffrey Earnhardt Racing Experience

11 AM – 3 PM — Montgomery Motor Speedway — Limited-time driving packages 50% off — Experience the thrill of racing on a storied short track in Alabama.

Montgomery Pop Tab Party

11 AM – 3 PM — McDonald's — Free entry — Bring your collected pop tabs and enjoy a community gathering with giveaways and lunch.

Wetumpka FFA Alumni Championship Rodeo

6-7 p.m. — The City of Wetumpka Sports Complex — Ticket required for admission — Experience the excitement of Mutton Bustin' featuring young rodeo talents under the stars.

7th Annual Spring Chicken Festival

10 AM – 5 PM — SweetCreek Farm Market — Free entry — Celebrate spring with 150 local vendors and fun kids activities at this vibrant festival.

R&B on the River Concert

9 p.m. — Montgomery Whitewater — Free entry with HBCU Final 4 ticket — Enjoy soulful R&B vibes and local artists along the scenic Riverwalk.

NA Meetings

9-10 a.m. — Gifts Incorporated — Free entry — Weekly open discussion for men's support in overcoming drug addiction.

OCOU 2025 Health Fair

9 AM – 12 PM — Doster Community Center — Free entry — A community health fair offering valuable resources and services to promote wellness.

Karaoke & Comedy Night

8-11:59 p.m. — ALOE Event Center — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Kelly 'K-Dubb' and karaoke hosted by DJ Ali.

7th Annual Spring Chicken Festival

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — SweetCreek Farm Market — Free entry — Celebrate spring with live music, tasty food, and fresh produce at this community festival.